Cast
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Kathleen Kinmont
as Karin Crosse
Rory Calhoun
as Old Turkel
Cleve Hall
as Streak
Jack Damon
as Rinaldi
Elizabeth Kaitan
as Gretchen Hope
Sam Mann
as Marachek
Michael Sonye
as Karp
Suzanne Solari
as Sharon Crosse
Abby Dalton
as Mother Speed
Johnnie Saiko
as Kosai
Kathleen Elizabeth
as Tawny
Leslie Marcucella
as Valjean
Susan Henderson
as Sister Slo
Mina Sanjo
as Miko
Norman Alden
as Bartender
Crew
Director
- Donald G. Jackson
Producer
- Jonathan Kaplan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Roller Blade Warriors: Taken by Force explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Donald G. Jackson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Roller Blade Warriors: Taken by Force took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 39 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Roller Blade Warriors: Taken by Force shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 28 Weeks Later, which focuses more on action than character development, Roller Blade Warriors: Taken by Force offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Resident Evil and Resident Evil: Apocalypse explore similar territory, Roller Blade Warriors: Taken by Force stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 28, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 23m
